According to Deutsche Welle (DW), the investigation is the result of reports that Hundreds of Peruvians – including former policemen and soldiers – were lured online with promises of well-paid jobs in Russiawith monthly salaries ranging from PLN 2,000. up to 3 thousand hole. (according to the current exchange rate from PLN 7.2 thousand to PLN 10 thousand).
After arriving in Russia, many recruits were allegedly forced to participate in combat operations against Ukraine. Percy Salinas, a lawyer representing the victims' families, stated that from October 2025, approximately 600 Peruvians.
So far, at least 13 Peruvian citizens have been confirmed dead in the conflict.
The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked the Russian embassy for information on the whereabouts of its citizens. Although the Russian diplomatic mission in Lima confirmed that some Peruvians had signed military contracts, it maintained that they did so voluntarily and legally.
The case in Peru reflects this a broader global pattern of Russian recruitment effortswhich was identified by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (HUR).
According to HUR, Russia has recruited almost 3,000. citizens of countries from all over Africa – including Kenya, Egypt and Nigeria. In addition, Moscow often uses mercenaries as shock troops with minimal training. Intercepted conversations published by HUR suggest that Russian commanders used physical violence and intimidation to force reluctant foreign recruits to participate in high-risk operations.
Moreover, the US Department of State estimated that 1,000 people are currently serving in the Russian armed forces. up to 5 thousand Cuban citizens who have become pawns in the ongoing war.
